This story appears in the
December 2001 issue of
Entrepreneur.
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Vital Stats: Adam Willner,
36, of El Cerrito, California-based Zao Noodle Bar
Company: Pan-Asian
restaurant chain started in 1996
2001 Sales: $6 million
Something Ventured . . . :
"I raised money from a venture capital group and a few small
investors. My pitch was very straightforward: just me and a
business plan. I think the relatively small amount of capital
needed, the fact that I'm a very open person and my industry
experience played a role."
"The secret of
our success is our dedication to quality and hospitality. We will
do anything to satisfy our guest."
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Noodles Chic: "Our
feeling is hip, high-energy, casual and comfortable. We incorporate
materials and colors inspired by Asia: red floors, slatted walnut
banquet seating, wallpaper taken from Asian newspapers."
Oodles of Noodles: "We
intend to double the size of the company in 18 months, focusing on
upscale suburban and urban environments in the greater Bay area and
Seattle."
Noodlepreneur: "I
always wanted to do something entrepreneurial. Asian noodles were
exciting to me because of the great flavors and diversity of noodle
dishes. I eat everything on the menu at least once a
week."
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